Young scientists from several primary and secondary schools in the North West province presented their scientific projects at the Eskom Expo for Young Scientists Regional Science Fair held on Friday, 2 August 2024 at the North-West University’s (NWU’s) Potchefstroom Campus.

The learners were also treated with a campus tour, including  a visit to the Botanical Gardens and Science Centre.

The Eskom Science fair is sponsored proudly by the Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences and the Department of Education. This regional competition grants young scientists an opportunity to pursue their interests in science, technology, economics and mathematics (STEM) subjects, displaying creative thinking and problem-solving skills.

At the event, 61 research projects were presented by a total of 84 upcoming young scientists from the region. The judging panel, consisting of 32 professionals from the NWU and the Department of Education, ensured that the young innovators were assessed and acknowledged for their outstanding work.

The region’s awards ceremony saw the outstanding young scientists receiving the esteemed Eskom Special Awards. The winners of the awards, who were given Bluetooth wireless speakers with wireless chargers, sponsored by Eskom included:

• Best female: Lamees Rassulmia, Grade 10, The High School for Girls Potchefstroom
• Best innovation: Melokuhle Ndimande and Phetogo Bele, Grade 10, The High School for Girls Potchefstroom
• Best energy project: Rievkah Boardman, Grade 9, The High School for Girls Potchefstroom
• Best development project: Lefa Leburu and Sahara Onito, Grade 7, Klerksdorp Primary School

Other special prizes were also awarded, including:

• Best primary school projects: Lefa Leburu from Klerksdorp Primary School, Esme Cronje from Noordvaal Primary School, and Sahara Onito from Klerksdorp Primary School.
• Best secondary school project: Lamees Rassulmia from The High School for Girls Potchefstroom
• Primary school with the most projects: Klerksdorp Primary School
• Secondary school with the most projects: The High School for Girls Potchefstroom

Additionally, nine silver medals, 30 bronze medals and seven greatly desired gold medals, were also given out at the awards ceremony.

The winners of the regional competition are offered the opportunity to compete against the great minds of young scientists at provincial level across the country. The national winners will have the honour to represent South Africa internationally, displaying the next generation of leaders who are eager to change the world.

Circuit manager of the Northwest Department of Education, Rinah Sebolai, offered words of support and expressed her appreciation to the organisers and educators, highlighting their role in supporting and encouraging the learners to enter the science expo.

“I am truly humbled that science is taking centre stage. On behalf of the Dr Kenneth Kaunda, JB Marks, Matlosana and Maquassi Hills local education offices, I would like to announce that we will continue to take part in the science expo. Our objective is to have an even bigger expo, and we encourage learners to recruit their friends to enter,” Sebolai added.

The NWU congratulates all the winners and looks forward to the next Eskom Science Expo.

Potchefstroom High School for Girls walks away with the best Secondary School award.

Klerksdorp Primary wins the best Primary School award at the science fair.

Rinah Sebolai, circuit manager of the Northwest Department of Education, thanks learners for participating in the science fair.